Philadelphia Register of Wills - Philadelphia, PA

General Overview

The Philadelphia Register of Wills is a historic row office that serves a dual role in the administration of justice and vital records for the city. Functioning as both the Register of Wills and the Clerk of the Orphans' Court, this office is the primary custodian of generational history and wealth in Philadelphia. Its responsibilities are vast, ranging from the issuance of marriage licenses to the probate of wills and the appointment of estate administrators. The office dates its functional origins back to the colonial era, holding records that are critical for genealogists, historians, and legal professionals. Under its ”Plan. Prepare. Protect.” initiative, the office also actively works to address issues of tangled titles and generational property rights.

Marriage License Department

Located in Room 413 of City Hall, this division is the first stop for couples planning to wed in Philadelphia. The department issues marriage licenses which are valid for use throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Couples must apply together in person or, in specific qualifying circumstances, through a virtual appointment process. The office also maintains marriage records dating back to 1915, providing certified copies for legal, insurance, and genealogical purposes.

• Requirements: Valid photo ID and Social Security card (or second ID) are strictly required for all applicants.
• Validity: Licenses are valid for 60 days and have a mandatory 3-day waiting period before the ceremony can be performed.

Probate and Estates

The Probate Department, located in Room 180 of City Hall, handles the legal process of validating wills and administering the estates of deceased Philadelphia residents. When a resident passes away, their will must be ”probated” (proved) here to grant the executor the legal authority to act. If a person dies without a will (intestate), the Register of Wills appoints an administrator to manage the estate. This division acts as an agent for the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue for the collection of inheritance taxes.

Records and Archives

The Register of Wills is the keeper of centuries of Philadelphia's history. The archives contain wills, estate inventories, and administration files that date back to the late 1600s. While some historic documents are stored off-site or in preservation, the office provides access to modern probate records and serves as a critical resource for researching family history and property ownership in the city.

Orphans' Court Division

As the Clerk of the Orphans' Court, the office accepts filings for disputes involving estates, trusts, and incapacitated persons. This includes the filing of accounts by executors and guardians, petitions for adoptions, and the termination of parental rights. The Clerk's duties ensure that the procedural aspects of these sensitive family court matters are managed efficiently.

Security and Access

Visitors to the Register of Wills must enter through the public entrances of Philadelphia City Hall. All guests are subject to strict security screening, including metal detectors and bag checks. Lines can be long, so it is advisable to arrive early, especially for marriage license applications. The office operates on a strict schedule, and many services, particularly marriage licenses and probate hearings, may require or strongly recommend an appointment.